Carolina Panthers veteran offensive tackle Jordan Gross is retirning after 11 NFL seasons, the Charlotte Observer reported Tuesday.
The 33-year-old Gross spent his entire career with the Panthers, starting a franchise-record 167 games. He reached the Super Bowl in his rookie season with the team in 2003 and was named to three Pro Bowls, including the 2014 game.
Gross is expected to make an official retirement announcement on Wednesday.
According to the Observer, Gross planned to play in 2014 but a restructured contract was set to void ths month and he did not want to become a free agent and move to another team.
“I’ve been to a Super Bowl. I’ve been in the Pro Bowl. I’ve won the division. I’ve been 2-14. I’ve been carted off the field. I’ve been celebrated off the field,” Gross told the Observer. “I’ve had almost everything happen to me that can happen, short of winning the Super Bowl. I feel like I’m a very content person.”
Gross’ departure leaves the Panthers with a hole to fill at left tackle.